Agriculture Secretary Recognizes Wayne Marcus for Service in Iraq

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62 honored at USDA headquarters for their efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan

WASHINGTON, June 12, 2012 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently recognized the efforts of 62 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) employees who have helped revitalize the agricultural sectors in Afghanistan and Iraq. Among those honored during a ceremony June 4 was Wayne Marcus of Highland, Ill., who served as an agricultural and water advisor in Al Asad AnBar and Muthanna Provinces, Iraq, from 2005 to 2011.

“I’m honored to recognize these brave and devoted men and women for their tremendous service to the people of Afghanistan and Iraq,” said Vilsack. “These USDA employees have played a vital role in furthering political and social stability throughout the world by building a foundation on which the economies of these countries will prosper.”

USDA agricultural advisors began serving in Afghanistan in 2003 and Iraq in 2006. Their goal has been to help Afghanistan and Iraq rebuild their agricultural sectors by planning and implementing reconstruction and agricultural development projects. Activities vary depending on the needs of the area, but can range from mentoring local agricultural officials to improving food and animal production and marketing systems to veterinary infrastructure, soil and water conservation, and reclamation programs. Advisors working at the national government level help build the capacity of government ministries and collaborate with ministry staff to develop long-term strategies for agricultural development.

In Iraq, Marcus helped reconstruct municipal water, wastewater and electrical distribution facilities and roads and bridges. He also helped improve primary and adult education. Marcus received the Meritorious Service Award for his efforts from the U.S. Department of State in 2011. Before serving as an agricultural advisor, Marcus worked for 40 years as a water, wastewater and public works manager. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in education and environmental science from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill.

Since 2003, more than 250 USDA personnel have deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. More than 50 agricultural advisors are currently assigned there.